Alimony is a sensitive aspect of divorce and can lead to challenges experienced by both spouses. If you’re considering divorce, or are already going through the divorce process, it’s important that you learn about alimony and how it could affect you. Here’s what you need to know about alimony in New Jersey.

Alimony Is Rarely Ever Permanent

There are several types of alimony that can be awarded in a divorce case, including temporary alimony, rehabilitative alimony, and permanent alimony. Contrary to its namesake, permanent alimony is almost never really permanent. This is particularly true in light of the new bill signed by Governor Chris Christie in September of 2014. The new bill is designed to end support payments when the payer retires and will limit alimony payments in cases where the marriage lasted less than 20 years.

There Are Many Factors Used to Calculate Alimony in New Jersey

Before alimony is awarded or declined, the court will take into consideration a variety of factors, including how long the marriage lasted, what each spouse earned during the marriage, the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage, and each spouse’s parental responsibilities, if applicable. Other factors that are evaluated include the mental and physical health of each spouse, the contributions of each spouse to the marriage, and if one spouse put educational or career opportunities on hold in order to be a homemaker or to raise the couple’s children.

Alimony Can Be Modified

If alimony is awarded in your case, you need to know that it may be modified in the future. Certain circumstances that may require a modification to the alimony orders include a change in the income of either spouse, the inability of the recipient spouse to become independent and self-supporting in the original time frame, or if the recipient spouse remarries. Alimony must be modified through the court before the payments can be changed, or legal issues may arise.

Contact Rita T. Jerejian Today

If you’re involved in a divorce, or are simply considering the possibility of divorce, it’s important to learn about the options you have available to you. By contacting a skilled Hackensack alimony attorney, you can obtain the information you need regarding alimony and other divorce issues in order to move forward. Rita T. Jerejian can provide you with seasoned legal advice and support, and she will work hard to see that your case is resolved amicably and in your favor. Whether you are the potential payer or recipient of alimony, Attorney Jerejian will zealously advocate for your best interests throughout your case.

Contact Rita T. Jerejian now to schedule a consultation to discuss your case in detail. She will give your case the time and attention it deserves, and will provide you with caring, compassionate representation as you face critical legal issues that can have a significant impact on your family. Call today at (201) 489-7714.